Breck Naylor
Palo Verde High School
Class of 2012
In the words of Palo Verde High School senior Breck Naylor, “There is power in just one,” and her accomplishments thus far can certainly attest to that truth. Already a small business owner, she’s provided youth in her Pee Wee Cheerleading and Craft Camp the opportunity to inch a little closer to their aspirations. All the while, she’s acted as a tireless volunteer, donating time to assist those in need. For her desire to be that one person who makes a positive impact on the lives of others, while finding the courage to stand behind her convictions and reach for the stars, Breck Naylor is – A Step Above.
G.P.A.: 4.1
Sports/Activities/Clubs:
- Freshman Cheer Squad, 2008-09; JV Cheer Squad, 2009-10, Co-Captain
- Varsity Cheer Squad, 2010-12; Captain, 2011-12
- Summerlin Dance Academy Team, 2008
- Church Youth Choir, 2008-Present
- Youth Dance Festival, 2008
- National Honor Society, 2008
- Nevada State Student Council Representative, 2009-11
- Church Youth Group Member and Leader, 2008-Present
- Freshman Class VP, 2008-09; Sophomore Class VP, 2009-10; Student Body 1st VP, 2011-12
- Student Body Historian, 2010-11
Awards/Community Service:
- National Junior Leader Award Recipient, 2008
- Cheerleading Competition Champion, 2009-Present
- UCA All American Cheerleading Team, 2009-Present
- LDS Young Women’s Recognition Award, 2008
- State Student Government Conference, 2009-11
- Volunteer Work: Opportunity Village, Three Square, Fight for Diabetes Walk, Salvation Army Food Drive, Toys for Tots, Little Sisters
- Hats for ICU Infant Care, 2008-09
- Prom Dresses for the Needy Fashion Show, 2011
- Ronald McDonald House Quilts, 2008
- Hygiene Kits for Tsunami Victims, 2010
- Church Youth Camp Leader, 2010-11
- Lupus Walk for a Cure, 2009
Where do you see yourself in 10 years? “Ten years really isn’t that long from now, so I hope to be working in a successful career, but more importantly, supporting my husband and caring for my family. I would also like to be involved in some type of community service so that I can make a difference in others’ lives.”
Breck is Successful Because: “I think the self-worth my parents have instilled in me gives me the drive to be successful. I also rely on good friends and my church to help me stay true to my moral values. In addition, I never forget that true success means setting goals, working hard, staying positive and never giving up!”
Breck Looks Up To: “I look up to anyone who works hard at being successful, lives life to the fullest and doesn’t let others pressure them to be something or someone other than what they want to be. To me, that is true courage!”
Madison Taylor Blau
Palo Verde High School
Class of 2012
Palo Verde High School senior Madison Blau is one busy young lady. Between studying hard to maintain excellent grades and running her own business, it’s a wonder she has time for anything else. But she does, and that time has been well-spent on her own creation: the What’s in Your Closet Project. Through the initiative, Madison helps collect lightly used shoes and handbags from women in the community to be sold on eBay. The profits are then shared between the nonprofits Best Buddies and Opportunity Village. It’s not your average teenage activity, but we wouldn’t expect anything less from this above average achiever, whose commitment to helping others while staying true to her upstanding core values elevates her to – A Step Above.
G.P.A.: 4.74
Clubs/Activities/Awards:
- Best Buddies
- PVHS Yearbook
- National Honors Society
- 2011 Best Buddies Nevada Outstanding Chapter Award
- Best Buddies and Opportunity Village “What’s in Your Closet?” Project
- The One Yellow Rose eBay Business Founder
Goals & Aspirations: “I hope to attend a top university where I will major in marketing and communications design. I hope to develop my entrepreneurial skills and maybe someday run my own magazine.”
Madison is Successful Because: “I have an excellent work ethic and vision for perfection. My creative ability to think outside of the box and my unwavering dedication enable me to achieve my ultimate success.”
Madison Looks Up To: “I look up to my big brother and best friend, Justin. He epitomizes what it means to have ‘everything.’ Justin manages to balance his rigorous finance major at Washington University in St. Louis with his thriving music career as the mash-up artist 3LAU. Even with his busy schedule, he still makes it his priority to spend quality time with his family.”
Madison is Stronger and Wiser Because: “Through Best Buddies and Opportunity Village, working with people with intellectual and developmental disabilities has been an eye-opening experience for me. It has given me life perspective and has taught me to never take anything in life for granted.”
Part of the Solution: “Young adults today sometimes have a hard time accepting people who are different. Whether it’s discrimination based on skin color, religion or an intellectual disability, young adults tend to see the world in a very narrow view. I hope to be a part of the solution by promoting inclusion and educating those around me.”
Megan Alexander
The Meadows School
Class of 2012
Meadows School senior Megan Alexander has a vision of the future; a place where success is not measured by awards and notoriety, but by how great it makes one feel. As an outstanding runner and student, she’s acting out that vision, showing all her peers the joy that comes from hard work and dedication. As the leader of her school’s Create a Change Now chapter, she’s also demonstrating that she isn’t afraid to get a little dirt under her nails to make the world a better place. For her philanthropic efforts, fortitude and positivity, Megan Alexander is – A Step Above.
G.P.A.: 4.75
Sports/Clubs/Community Service:
- Varsity Cross Country, 2010-Present; Team Captain, 2011/12
- Varsity Track, 2009-Present
- Volleyball, 2008; Captain, 2009
- Technical Theater, 2007-11
- Recycling Club–Meadows Environmental Consortium, 2008-Present
- Mock Trial, 2010-Present
- Create a Change Now, 2010-Present; President, 2011/12
- Club Cure, 2010-Present; President, 2011/12
- Rock the Walk Volunteer, 2008-10
- Relay for Life, 2011
- Youth Advisory Council, 2011
- St. Elizabeth Catholic Church Volunteer, 2008-11
- Catholic Charities Volunteer, 2009
- Three Square, 2009
Awards:
- Cum Laude Society, 2011/12
- National Honor Society & National Spanish Honor Society, 2010-12
- National Merit Semifinalist, 2011
- National Spanish Exam–Nevada Chapter 2nd Place 4 OE, 2011
- Student of the Year, 2007/09/10
- MVP–Cross Country, 2011
- 1st Place in Regional Competition & State Competition Medal–Cross Country, 2010
- 2nd Place 800m–Cross Country Regional Competition
- Academic Awards: AP European History, 2011; Honors Algebra II/Trig, 2010; AP US History, 2010; Honors American Literature and Composition, 2010; Honors Intro to English Literature and Composition, 2009; Honors Spanish II, 2009; Honors Ancient History, 2009
Accomplishments Most Proud Of: “My induction into the Cum Laude Society was an important moment for me. Knowing that many of my teachers had come together to choose me from among my entire grade was gratifying.”
Megan Looks Up To: “I recently read a book called Born to Run about a tribe of runners called the Tarahumaras. Their reason for running has nothing to do with competition; they push themselves solely for the pleasure. I have internalized this outlook, trying to always look past tangible payoffs and instead focus upon how much fun I have in the process.”
Part of the Solution: “Childhood obesity has become a matter of global concern. When one in three kids are considered obese within our own nation, I cannot help but feel impelled to act. It is this passion that has driven me to lead my school’s chapter of the club Create a Change Now.”
Gabriella Quarantello
Bishop Gorman High School
Class of 2012
What’s behind a beautiful smile? A lot more than teeth and gums, if you ask Bishop Gorman High School senior Gabriella Quarantello. There’s certainly much behind her own. Confidence, for one. Charisma, for another. Intelligence and talent are present and accounted for as well. But even more evident is a kind-hearted disposition; one rooted in a desire to achieve her highest potential while doing what she can to lift the spirits of others. Whether performing on the stage, speaking behind a podium, volunteering her time or working steadfastly toward her goals, she’s making the grade and making a difference, and for that, Gabriella Quarantello is – A Step Above.
G.P.A.: 3.98
Activities/Clubs:
- Worship Choir, 2009-Present
- Theatre, 2009-Present
- Dancer–Production of The Tree, 2009; Dancer, Speaker and Co-Dance Captain–The Reflections in the Mirror, 2010
- House Management/Guest Services–Peter Pan, The Importance of Being Earnest and Charley”s Aunt
- Gaels on Broadway JV, 2009-10; Varsity, 2010-11; Varsity w/ Directing Practicum, 2011-12
- · An Actor”s Ballet: Peter and the Wolf as the Duck, 2011
- National Honor Society Secretary and Member, 2011-Present
- International Thespian Society Troupe #4347, 2009-Present
- Spanish Honor Society, 2010-Present
- Mu Alpa Theta, 2011-Present
- Speech and Debate Team, 2009-Present; Secretary, 2010-11; Captain, 2011-Present
- BGHS Academic Society Secretary and Member, 2009-10
- Student Government, 2007-Present
Awards:
- Student of the Year: Forensics, 2011; Church History, 2010; New Testament, 2009; English I, 2009; Health, 2009
- Certificate of Honor: Chemistry, 2011; Biology, 2010; Algebra I Honors, 2009; Spanish I, 2009
- Speech and Debate: NV State Tournament 3rdPlace Congressional Debate, 2011; Degree of Excellence, 2011; Rookie of the Year, 2010; Degree of Honor, 2010
- Lion”s Club Student Speaker Contest–Club, Zone and District Level Winner, 2010; State Level Runner-Up
- Sunrise Hospital and Sunrise Children’s Hospital Junior Volunteer, 2009-Present
Goals and Aspirations: “My goals are to graduate from high school and attend UNLV to obtain my bachelor’s degree in biology with a professional concept, then attend dental school. Eventually, I would love to become an oral surgeon, because when people feel good about their teeth, they will smile more, therefore, bringing happiness to all.”
Gabriella Looks Up To: “I look up to my parents because they are so strong in every aspect. I look up to them in so many ways, because I admire their love for their family so much. They will drop anything to spend time with me.”
Cause for Concern: “If I could, I would be president of the American Heart Association, because in 2010 my dad had six-coronary bypass open heart surgery. Two weeks later, he was discharged; truly one of the happiest days of my life. I want to help other families who are going through this situation, because having my dad’s life given back to me is priceless.”
Minding Your Mutt’s Manners – Etiquette at the Dog Park
By Ashlee Verba
Dogs and etiquette. Manners and animals. Sounds almost silly at first. In fact, until you’ve owned a dog, the concept probably never even crossed your mind. But just as manners help children play nice with others, so too do they help dogs and owners socialize and interact famously at the dog park. A doggie wonderland for physical activity, socialization and fun, the dog park can be a blast for both you and your pooch, but when it comes to throwing teeth, claws and tempers together, there is plenty to be mindful of.
The vast majority of dog parks, like public pools, will have a sign spelling out the rules of that specific park. These rules should most certainly be known, respected and abided by; however, simply following the rules won’t ensure the safety or enjoyment of the experience. Understanding and minding mutt manners starts at home with the acknowledgement that etiquette comes from both ends of the leash.
Leveling the Playing Field
Before you even consider taking your pooch to the dog park, having him immunized is a must. It will protect him and any other dog they may have interactions with, not only at the dog park but anywhere. Imagine how furious you’d be if your dog contracted parvo, distemper or influenza because another owner thought it unnecessary to immunize. There’s simply no excuse: ask your vet about diseases specific to your area and vaccinate.
Spaying and neutering, while a personal choice, is also a large issue among other owners. If you choose not to spay or neuter your pet, just know that dog park purists are a less-than-ideal welcome committee, often ready to greet you and your unfixed pup with disapproving glares. Don’t be surprised if a park peer quietly wanders up to your pet and peeks around to make sure he’s fixed–it’s been known to happen. And, if you don’t reprimand your dog from compulsively seeking out other furry friends to carry out their instincts, well, you might just get reprimanded yourself. While not necessarily aggressive, “mounting” is a gateway into dominance…not to mention your pooch can’t exactly get a good run in with an 80-pound Husky attached to its back. Fixed or not, as long as you maintain control of your pet’s urges, you should be able to dodge the dirty looks.
Know Thy Mutt
When it comes to areas where large groups of dogs congregate, it pays to know your dog and recognize that you don’t know the others. If you know that your little prince gets protective of toys, treats or tennis balls, leave them at home. As an owner, you obviously want your dog to have the most fun possible, but for a dog protective of his things, the idea of strangers around him may yield more stress than anything. Stress may yield aggression, which can get ugly in a heartbeat. Quite simply, if Grover has shown any signs of grouchiness regarding his things, leave them at home and let the socialization be entertainment enough.
Many loving owners enjoy bringing something for all the dogs to enjoy, perhaps a ball or bag of treats. While the intention is good, the result could be very bad. Even if your Precious loves to share, other dogs may put their dominant paw forward and become territorial over the provided extras. Keep your goody bag out of sight (and smelling range) until you’ve seen enough interaction and playtime to know that all the park’s toothy tenants get along amicably. Even so, you should always get permission before giving someone else’s dog anything. If giving your dog a bone in public isn’t an option, go ahead and treat your buddy once you two are alone or far enough away that it won’t cause a small uproar.
To Leash or Unleash the Furry
Dog parks can be big or small, fenced or unenclosed, designated for small dogs or big dogs. Some days it may be crowded while other days you have the whole place to yourselves. It’s your duty to assess the turf and adjust according to your mutt’s quirks and personality. If your dog is still a bit shaky on his come-when-called command, letting him run free in an unfenced dog park should not be an option. Similarly, if aggression or uncontrollable curiosity consumes your pet, don’t be afraid to make a move ensuring your canine sticks close–keep him on a leash. It may seem contrary to the freedom of a dog park, but you know your pet best. Even on-leash, you and your dog can get ample exercise as well as socialization.
Perhaps your dog is playful, but still a little unsure about other dogs in large groups. In that case, make sure the park has a smaller fenced area with fewer dogs and let your buddy run free. Don’t have any expectations for dogs other than your own. Some dogs will play by themselves while others are the catalyst in the mad dash across the park. As an owner all you can do is watch and act appropriately if need be.
Intervene Tactfully
Dog parks are very much like playgrounds: you can turn your head for a minute and suddenly hear yelps or snarls. But unlike dealing with children, dusting off their knees and sending them on their way simply won’t do it. If you notice a particular dog–be it yours or not–asserting dominance, bullying or any other unfavorable behavior, do not hesitate to assess your dog. Reroute his attention to you, another group of dogs or, worst-case scenario, be ready to leave the park. Disciplining someone else’s dog, no matter how out of line it may be, is a huge no-no in dog world. It’s important to understand that, much like with children, people will almost always take their dog’s side, regardless of how wrong they really are. Having a word with the owner about said behavior is in no way frowned upon, but prepare yourself for what could be an awkward, possibly heated conversation.
Be Responsible
Sure, your dog may be administering a personalized fertilizer in every square inch of the park, but turning a blind eye, distracting yourself with a cell phone, or having a “someone else will get it” attitude will only yield those previously mentioned, most-unfavorable glares. Always have a plastic bag or two on you–not in the car, not over on that bench over there. They should be in-your-pocket, and when duty calls, you should be prepared to walk your dutiful self across the park and clean up after your pet.
It’s also wise to bring water and a bowl with you. It’s amazing just how tired and dehydrated an hour of play can make your pooch. Sharing water in dog parks is common, oftentimes appreciated, and usually doesn’t yield the kind of dominance a food incentive can.
Once you own a dog, it seems as though immunization, keeping an eye out, and reprimanding when necessary should be common sense…but it’s shocking how often these basic facets of etiquette are skirted. Relationships can be made and broken over animal behavior, but if you vow to play well, respect and are courteous to others, a trip to the dog park can be a great experience for you and your pet. Take charge, be prepared and enjoy having a happy, healthy, pooped-out pooch.
Dog Parks ‘Round the Valley
Bark Park at Heritage Park (350 S. Racetrack Rd.)
A favorite among Henderson residents, this 5-acre park features separate dog runs, an agility course, walking trail, dog bone-themed benches and drinking stations for both people and their pets. It will be closed for maintenance Oct. 24-Nov. 23.
Acacia Park (50 Casa Del Fuego St.) Gibson Rd. and Las Palmas Entradas Ave.
Amador Vista Park (1562 Amador Ln.) Amador Ln. and Horizon Ridge Pkwy.
Cactus Wren Park (2900 Ivanpah Dr. at Jessup Rd.)
Dos Escuelas Park (1 Golden View Dr.)
Paseo Verde Pkwy. and Desert Shadow Trail
Equestrian Park South (1200 Equestrian Dr. at Magic Way)
*Closed for maintenance Sept. 19-Oct.20
Esselmont Park (2725 Anthem Highlands Dr.) Bicentennial Pkwy. and Democracy Dr.
Paseo Vista Park (2505 Paseo Verde Pkwy. at St. Rose Pkwy.)
For more information, visit www.cityofhenderson.com.
Out n About September
Out n About September
Dick Feeney
By Callie Thomas
If Frank, Dean or Sammy were alive today, they’d probably call resident Dick Feeney a swingin’ cat and entertainment genius. Currently the producer of The Rat Pack is Back, a tribute to three of the most iconic performers in Vegas, the twenty-six year Vegas resident knows a thing or two about developing and selling a show. He’s had the entertainment bug most of his life, and in the early 80s he produced his first critically acclaimed show, Lullaby of Swing, in Honolulu, Hawaii. He eventually moved to Vegas in 1985 and became the Associate Producer of An Evening at La Cage at the Riviera and continued to produce a string of shows, including Crazy Girls, Showgirls, Bottoms Up, The World’s Greatest Magic Show and Viva Las Vegas, among others. Feeney added television producer to his list of accomplishments with the shows The Entertainment Page, Las Vegas Tonight and Karaoke Krazy.
For his contributions to entertainment in the city, Feeney was awarded a star on the Las Vegas Walk of Stars. Play tourist along the Strip and you’ll find the producer’s recognition on the sidewalk in front of the New York, New York Hotel and Casino. But bringing award-winning shows to Vegas is not Feeney’s only claim to fame; it’s his generosity to local charities that makes him a standout in the community. Through cast and entertainer appearances, along with thousands of dollars in ticket donations, his shows have given back to charitable organizations including Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure, Nevada Cancer Institute, Candelighters Childhood Cancer Foundation, MDA, Ronald McDonald House and more. That’s why we decided to “take five” with Mr. Entertainment Feeney to find out just what makes him tick.
Have you ever performed in any of your productions?
“I grew up in the Boston area, Rockland Massachusetts, toured with the popular band Lewis & Clark Expedition and later formed my own group called Gemini. I performed from the age of 17 until I left the stage at 33. Although my main instrument is trumpet, I also played saxophone, trombone and performed as lead singer and dancer.”
Speaking of family, does everyone get into the entertainment act?
“Well, my oldest son Christopher, who’s now 29, is a CPA and actor with a new Miller Lite beer commercial in New York. My fabulous wife Melissa manages and runs the Flying Elvi Company, as well as being my partner and a terrific mother to our three small children: Katherine, age ten, Matthew, eight, and Samuel, who is five.”
You mean the famous Elvis jump in the 1992 movie Honeymoon in Vegas?
“Yes! They were first featured in the movie with Nicholas Cage and Sarah Jessica Parker. Ten Elvis Presley clad jumpers skydived into the movie and have since made hundreds of appearances at events across the country from altitudes of 5,000 to 12,000 feet, freefalling at speeds up to 160 miles an hour.”
That’s quite a feat. Of all of your accomplishments, what are you most proud of?
“I would say–aside from my wonderful family–producing over 30,000 performances that have brought enjoyment to millions of show-goers.”
Do you have any inspiration for others or a favorite quote you live by?
“Life is not a rehearsal. You have to give it your all (100%) every time out. Don’t hold back for the next take; it may never come.”
Doug Bradford
By Callie Thomas
“Leadership to me means duty, honor, country. It means character and listening from time to time.” – George Herbert Walker Bush, 41st President
In 1941, President Franklin D. Roosevelt formed the United Service Organization, more commonly known as the USO, which unified several support organizations that had mobilized to assist the growing U.S. military that was heading into World War II. The objective was to provide the emotional sustenance and recreational opportunities needed by our troops.
The USO has evolved since the days of Bob Hope, Bing Crosby, Jack Benny and scores of others who have entertained our service men and women. And while it remains steadfast to its original mission, developing new programs that meet the ever-changing needs of the troops and their families is also very important. Today, the USO continues to lift the spirits of America’s troops and their families and serves as America’s support link.
Resident Doug Bradford knows what it’s like to be in the military, having served in the Navy himself. In fact, it seems to be a family tradition; his father, two brothers and father-in-law are all Navy, and Bradford’s eldest son is in full training to be a Navy Seal who will deploy next fall. So it is easy to understand the passion and dedication Bradford has in his current position as the Center Director for the new USO Las Vegas Center at McCarran Airport.
Bradford was not only the right choice for his role with the USO Las Vegas because of his personal experiences in the military, but also because of his natural talents as a communicator. The 26-year resident was a general assignment reporter for KLAS-TV8 and his reporting beat was cops and courts. After about three years he was hired as Public Information Officer for the City of Las Vegas where he was responsible for all media relations for the Mayor and City Council. Doug has also worked as Director of Public Communication for Clark County and as a Government Affairs Consultant for both Nevada Power and Science Applications International, specifically on the Yucca Mountain Nuclear Waste Project. “I believe in the power of information and making a difference in the community,” says Bradford. “Every job I’ve had in Las Vegas has revolved around informing people about the community in which they live.”
His enthusiasm is evident when describing the USO Las Vegas Center at McCarran Airport, which opened on Veteran’s Day, November 11, 2010. “In just 82 days the center was operating and providing a variety of services for our men and women in the military,” he said. The 2,830 square foot USO Lounge includes desktop and laptop computers, video gaming systems, 12 lounge chairs in the movie theater/sports lounge as well as cell phone use and a nicely stocked snack bar. “Everything in the center is provided for the troops free of charge. The mission of the USO Las Vegas is to give our service men and women a touch of home and to say thank you for their sacrifices as they fight against terrorism.” In September 2012, the USO LV hosted its 25,000th visitor…in just 10 short months.
The USO is a private, nonprofit organization which relies on the generosity of its donors. They provide services at airports and military bases around the world and even send celebrity entertainers, snacks, sports equipment and the like to the forward-deployed troops in Iraq and Afghanistan. Aside from the entertainment function, the USO also helps wounded warriors, as well as the families of fallen soldiers. “I have an affinity for helping my brothers-in-arms by doing what I can,” Bradford said. “I am honored to serve our Armed Forces and their families.”
Doug has also been involved with many local charities, including Spread the Word Nevada Kids to Kids, a literacy organization, and the Las Vegas Natural History Museum, where he served as Chairman of the Board. And then there’s Operation Godspeed, a group which raised over $1.2 million to build a non-denominational chapel at the Southern Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemetery. He is as proud to help others as he is in sharing his experiences with his family, which includes wife Lauren and sons Mark and Chase. “I have worked with and met some outstanding people who share the same joy I get when working with charities. I encourage everyone to find a way to help their fellow Las Vegans. Giving back to your community is the least you can do.” For information on donating to the center, email Doug at dbradford@uso.org or call 702-261-6590.
Sandy Kalm, MD
By Callie Thomas
There are horse whisperers and dog whisperers, but it’s interesting to consider that there might actually be a child whisperer; someone who helps translate and voice children’s feelings to their parents to better understand their needs. Coming from a long line of child whisperers, Resident Dr. Sandy Kalm has a natural ability to uncover what ails those that can’t speak for themselves. Her father is a child/adolescent psychiatrist, her brother is also a pediatrician, and her cousin is a pediatric neuro-oncologist. While her family shares a common passion for helping kids, it would seem that she was gifted with an exceptional talent for reaching her patients on another level. She’s currently on duty at Good Night Pediatrics, a nighttime urgent care. She enjoys watching her patients grow and flourish and advocates good communication skills. The care facility lets the kids take books home with them after a visit. The program has been so popular that they are in need of replenishing their book supply and are planning a drive very soon. Kalm has also become involved with the Henderson Library through their Reading with Rover program.
Dr. Kalm has a three-and-a-half-year-old Sheperd-Sharpei registered therapy dog named Ingrid, so it’s easy to connect the dots. Ingrid doesn’t exactly read to kids, but kids will love to read to Ingrid–probably because she’s such a good listener. By bonding with the dog, children feel comfortable enough to read out loud. Kalm is excited to work with her assigned reading child and help them improve their reading this fall. Ingrid and Dr. Kalm are a dynamic duo and also lift the spirits of HealthSouth Hospital patients by making the rounds and visiting them in their rooms as well as in gyms to motivate and encourage their rehabilitation. Dr. Kalm and Ingrid took a time out with us so we could get to know them a little better.
You have such a special understanding of the children that you treat. Some would say it’s magical.
“There’s an element of magic about our book collection at Good Night Pediatrics! Kids will say they want a book about spiders, or Dora, or anything they can think of and suddenly…PRESTO! They’ll find one right there on the shelf. Amazing!”
We think you really do have special powers! Any other unusual events or traits you’d like to share?
“I played the flute for at least a decade in my native Salt Lake City. I’ve played in the Jewish Christmas Band for the St. Vincent De Paul Center while people in need ate a delicious Christmas lunch. It was the most amazing experience–volunteers that usually feed the homeless every day were off for Christmas. The Jewish community came together and spent three days cooking these amazing traditional dishes and served them while we entertained with our music. Oh, and once when I was in medical school in New York I dressed up as a clown to visit kids in the hospital.”
It’s easy to see you enjoy giving back to the community. How do you enjoy the fruits of your labors?
“I love spending time with my family–my husband Howard, my step daughters Molly and Kayla and, of course, Ingrid. There’s also a wonderful farmer’s market on Fridays and $6 Tuesday movie nights in my community.”
Any words of wisdom for others in the community?
“Always expect the unexpected.”
Paula Lawrence
By Callie Thomas
Move over Emily Post and Judith Martin, a.k.a. “Miss Manners,” there’s a new madam of manners in town. Meet resident Paula Lawrence; she’s poised, polished and empowered to teach Las Vegans a thing or two about people skills. A lot has changed in the way of proper protocol since Post’s 1922 breakthrough book on etiquette. As a master etiquette consultant, Lawrence gives large corporations, small businesses, students and professionals a modern dose of social dos and don’ts. Two years ago she founded Keynote Academy to help her students discover that a positive image, impeccable manners and appropriate communication skills are truly invaluable. Particularly in this economy, when more people are in the market for a new job or changing careers, an increased social IQ can be a powerful tool in networking and landing interviews and jobs.
Lawrence has taken her teachings mobile, and you can probably find her meeting with clients around conference, coffee and even dining tables to help build confidence and social awareness. She also shares her know-how with those in need throughout the city. She serves on the Board of Directors of Dress for Success of Southern Nevada. Their mission is to provide professional attire and a network of support for disadvantaged women in order to promote their economic independence. She’s also a Program Developer and Speaker for Hero School, Inc. It is said that to teach independence, you must be independent. With successful business owners heralding the way, those less fortunate have the opportunity to reach their potential by learning through real life mentors. Lawrence takes the idea of “it takes a village” and lives the message by connecting with people, creating opportunities and teaching life skills to add value throughout the community. Here we share a glimpse into the life of this busy professional.
Is it hard to stay eternally positive and poised in your everyday life?
“I surround myself with positive people who choose to grow and make a difference. My family and friends are integral to my life. My teenage daughters Riley and Casey make me laugh every day.”
You got into the etiquette business in a pretty unusual way. Want to tell us about it?
“Well, I worked in the private security industry for eight years managing, hiring and training private security/body guards. I learned quickly that regardless of the law enforcement experience or weapons expertise, the officers with the most professional appearance and command of social graces were the most requested and highest paid. So, I taught grown men how to shake hands, tie a tie and speak professionally. I was inspired to start Keynote Academy as a result.”
What do you like to do when you’re not on the clock?
“You can usually find me at a Coronado or Green Valley High School Volleyball game watching my daughters play or dining out with friends.”
What would you say is the best kept dining secret in your neighborhood?
“You have to go to the International Culinary College at the Art institute for lunch. Really delicious gourmet meals prepared by students.”
If you had the power to change the world, what would you do?
“Help the world become a kinder, happier, more polite place to be…and sit up straight already!”
